What types of businesses are most popular among immigrants in Calgary?
Calgary, a city with a dynamic economy and diverse population, has become home to many immigrants who seek not only to find employment but also to start their own businesses. Thanks to a favorable business climate, access to resources, and a support network, newcomers find many opportunities for entrepreneurship in this city. At the same time, successful cases arise in areas where immigrants combine their professional expertise and cultural characteristics with the needs of the local market. Below is a detailed description of five business areas that have gained the most popularity among immigrants in Calgary.
Restaurants and cafes serving national cuisine
One of the most common areas is gastronomy, particularly restaurants and cafes offering national cuisine. Ukrainian immigrants are opening cozy establishments serving borscht, varenyky, and deruny, attracting the attention of both the Eastern European diaspora and local gourmets looking for original flavors. Similarly, owners from Southeast Asia or the Middle East invite Calgarians to try Philadelphia cuisine, Thai tom yum soups, and authentic hummus with homemade lavash. The success of this business is based on a combination of high-quality ingredients — often imported directly from the homeland — and a modern interior that conveys the spirit of the country of origin.
IT startups and technology services
Calgary is increasingly becoming Canada's southwestern technology hub. Clusters of engineers, developers, and startup labs are concentrated here. Immigrants from India, Nepal, the Philippines, and Eastern Europe, with their strong technical education and experience, are founding companies that create mobile applications, web solutions, and big data processing services. Many of these startups receive support through the Calgary Innovation Coalition and Alberta Innovates programs, which provide grants and mentoring. A key factor in the popularity of technology businesses is low operating costs and the ability to work remotely from anywhere in the world.
Construction and repair services
The construction and repair sector has been a stable source of jobs and income for immigrants for many years. English-speaking craftsmen from the former Soviet Union, Poland, and Lithuania are opening companies specializing in electrical installation, plumbing, and general residential repairs. Due to the shortage of skilled workers in Canada, they quickly gain a reputation as reliable contractors. Many carry out turnkey projects: from drawing up estimates to final cleaning, which allows them to avoid unnecessary intermediaries and maintain customer trust.
Childcare and elderly care services
Demographic changes and the need for social services are driving the demand for professional care. Immigrants from the Philippines, Ukraine, and Colombia are setting up agencies specializing in home care for the elderly or day care for children. They offer nannies, disability assistants, and caregivers, carefully selecting and training staff to Canadian standards. With their knowledge of multiple languages and cultural understanding, these companies create a warm atmosphere and provide a personalized approach to each client.
Online commerce and import-distribution networks
With the development of e-commerce, immigrants are successfully launching stores that import goods from their home countries: clothing, cosmetics, food, and household goods. Online platforms such as Shopify and Amazon make it possible to quickly enter the broad Canadian and US markets. Developed supply and storage chains help minimize delivery times and keep prices competitive. The most successful entrepreneurs are those who seek to offer exclusive products: Ukrainian honey with honeycombs, Korean skin care products, Indian spices, and delicacies.
All of these business areas are united by the desire of immigrants to use their own skills and cultural characteristics to fill a niche in the local market. The choice of concept for an establishment or service determines not only the start-up capital and risks, but also long-term stability and development. Active involvement in local business communities, participation in industry events, and continuous service improvement help lay a solid foundation and adapt to the needs of Calgarians. This is how many immigrants turn their initial idea into a profitable and viable business.